Why frigate specifications need a mission context

Front-line anti-submarine frigates need enough air defense to protect themselves while carrying out their main task. Supporting a destroyer's screen is useful, but self-protection remains central to that role. Machinery and weapon choices follow each navy's operating pattern, doctrine and industry. Type 054 suits Chinese requirements, while Gorshkov fits Russian presence missions and operating preferences. Swapping either design into the other navy because it scores higher on an equipment table would overlook those needs. A numerical score for national suitability would itself depend on the assessor's judgment. Identical scores for ships that all fit their own navies would add little, while the apparent equipment winner could still be an unsuitable purchase.